Dictionary of Procurement Terms

Any governmental body that is authorized to enter into contracts.

An attempt by manufacturers, wholesalers, and other distribution channels to motivate intermediaries to push the product down to their customers. (Business 2002)

A bidder determined by the purchasing organization to meet the minimum standards of business competence, reputation, financial ability, and product quality for placement on the bidders list. See also: Responsible Bidder/Proposer/Offeror.

A list of products identified by manufacturers’ names and model numbers that are the only items that meet the minimum specifications as determined by the using entity. These products are used when quality is such a critical factor and testing so lengthy or expensive that the entity wants to stay with proven products.

Pertaining to or concerning quality aspects. This measurement tends to be more subjective in nature and determines suitability or effectiveness. For example: While the navyblue color of this week’s shipment of motors is slightly lighter in color, it will not affect its performance and therefore this shipment is still acceptable from a qualitative point of view.